Artpark to connect the isolated, with aid of futuristic technologies

NT Correspondent 

Artificial Intelligence & Robotics Technology Park (Artpark), the first of its’ it’s kind in the country, a not-for-profit foundation promoted by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc Bengaluru), with the seed capital of Rs 230 crore from the governments (Rs 170 crore from Union Govt + Rs 60 crore from the State Govt) was launched on Monday.

Launching the office of Artpark at IISc Campus, Dr CN Ashwatha Narayana, Minister for IT/BT and S&T said, Artpark intending to use futuristic technologies to connect the unconnected will work with a focus on creating a globally leading Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Innovation ecosystem in India.

Further he told, “Jobs are the need of the hour. Artpark has been set up to effectively use technology, specifically AI & Robotics, for the country’s betterment. The Artpark has the objective of channelizing innovations to create a societal impact by executing ambitious mission-mode R&D projects in healthcare, education, mobility, infrastructure, agriculture, retail, and cybersecurity aiming to solve problems unique to India”.

“This initiative to push the narrative for ‘Connecting the unconnected’ by Artpark will help the youth outside urban India not only access the next generation of digital work but also acquire the skills they need to thrive in an AI-driven future. Karnataka will take a leadership role to create the new economic growth model for Atmanirbhar Bharat,” Narayana told.

On the occasion, ‘Artpark Innovation Summit 2022’ themed “Connecting the Unconnected- Building a smart, sustainable rural economy” was held. Dr Rajiv Kumar, vice chairman, NITI Aayog, who attended the summit virtually, said, “India has the potential to become a world leader by unlocking the full potential of its rural economy, futuristic technologies like 5G, AI & Robotics will help realise this at a much faster pace and create the next big wave of jobs.”

“Digital and physical connectivity innovations are critical to India’s growth and Atmanirbhar vision. Artpark facilitates bringing together the industry, academia, and government to discuss creating the next model of job growth outside of metros by leveraging cutting edge technologies” said Dr S Chandrasekhar, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology, Govt of India.

Prof Rangarajan, Director, IISc, Chair BOD Artpark said, IISc is at the forefront of research in frontier technologies like 5G and UAVs, and Artpark is using that expertise to create a better India for tomorrow.